What is Assisted Living?

            Assisted Living in the United States, especially in the mid-west is a relatively new concept compared to the alternatives.  There are many different opinions about assisted living, and why they are here, or if they are even needed.  Assisted Living comes out of the alternative continuum of care model.  They are here for people who cannot quite live independently any longer, but do not need 24-hour care like they would receive at a nursing home.  However, some people believe that assisted living is the same as nursing home care.  The assisted living concept is a philosophy of care and services promoting independence and dignity.  The resident is allowed to live their independent life while getting assistance from the facility if and when they need it.  It provides the security and socialization that the residence may not receive while living independently.  This in turn helps them stay out of a nursing home environment longer. The typical resident of an assisted living facility needs help with around three daily living activities. 

            At Northern Lights Villa a resident enjoys the independence and space of a private 1 or 2-bedroom apartment that has a private entrance from a porch area out front or a private entrance into the common area.  The resident has their own kitchen with stove, fridge, and microwave to keep their independence in the kitchen if they would like.  For those that do not like to cook or bake, meals are served in the dining room of the facility, which is located in the common room.  There is also space for a washer and dryer in each apartment, with laundry services available in the common space.  With the addition of more units, residents will also be able to enjoy a great room, garden area, and an indoor walking track for exercise.  Northern Lights Villa is also attached to the hospital (and soon the clinic) for the ease of traveling to doctor’s appointment or for the occasional lab work.

            Overall, Northern Lights Villa is here to help our elderly population maintain their independence as long as possible, while providing them assistance with the needs they can no longer meet.  We believe the assisted living concept helps keep people in the community who may otherwise have to leave in order to get the care they require.  For information regarding assisted living, Northern Lights Villa, or ways to get involved in the new addition please contact Northern Lights Villa or St. Luke’s Community Foundation at 701-965-6384.